Dear Colleagues,

As the organization committee of the ESCV 2009 Annual Meeting, it is an honor and a pleasure for us to invite you to the ESCV Annual Meeting which will be held in Istanbul, from 27 to 30 September 2009, the first time the congress will be held in this unique city. The congress venue will be the Harbiye Military Museum, in the center of our magnificent city of Istanbul. Istanbul, the only city which is on two continents –Europe and Asia- has so many alternatives for all the participants and we are sure you will have an unforgettable time at the ESCV Annual Meeting here.

In recent years, the ESCV has grown and developed into what is now a leading and dynamic force in Clinical Virology. Efforts for organizing the meetings is with the same dynamism and expertise that are the hallmarks of a high caliber and carefully arranged scientific programme. A thorough discussion and critical evaluation of the latest advancements in virology will be key features of the scientific programme. The sessions, which will include keynote lectures, interactive poster discussions , satellite meetings and meet expert sessions will also provide an opportunity for all participants to exchange views on current issues. We hope that the ESCV Annual Meeting, 27 to 30 September 2009, will be a red-letter date in your diary, an event that we expect to be exciting and informative. We look forward to being your hosts knowing that Istanbul Meeting will be an enlightening and enjoyable experience that should not be missed.

See you in Istanbul in 2009!

Prof. Gülden Yilmaz Chair of the 12th ESCV 2009 Annual Meeting

Prof. Bruno Lina President of the ESCV